Transform Your State of Mind

Feel-good philosophies and global spirituality from around the world

Dialing in the best possible you is a topic and practice that spans continents and decades. In these thought-provoking reads, you’ll get inspiration from some of the best-loved philosophers and holy people in the world on how to find happiness, success, and fulfillment—even how to maintain your sanity during turbulent times like we’re experiencing today.

These mood-boosting books distill complex ideas about personal transformation into easy, actionable steps. While some of these guides have a spiritual basis, none of them are trying to tell you what to believe, only how to flourish in the life you’re living now.

“You have come to earth to entertain and to be entertained.”

Steve Jobs kept only one book on his iPad and read it every year (he also had copies of it distributed at his memorial). The book? Autobiography of a Yogi. In this profound introduction to the ancient science of yoga and the time-honored tradition of meditation, Paramahansa Yogananda explores the mysteries of human existence. First published in 1946, Autobiography of a Yogi is responsible for introducing millions of Westerners to the teachings of meditation and Kriya Yoga, and remains a beloved bestseller today.

“Your power is in your thoughts, so stay awake.”

Money, health, relationships, and happiness—discover the hidden, untapped power that’s within you to succeed. Gleaned from the great oral traditions, literature, religions, and philosophies from throughout centuries and around the globe, author Rhonda Byrne blends the best of self-actualization in her blockbuster The Secret. Let this book show you how to invite joy into every aspect of your life as it assists you in achieving your wishes and dreams.

“The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are.”

Most people have heard of “follow your bliss,” but I only recently learned that the phrase was first coined by celebrated scholar Joseph Campbell. Selected and edited by Diane K. Osbon, A Joseph Campbell Companion: Reflections on the Art of Living brings together some of Campbell’s most poignant life-affirming insights. Whether you’re feeling up, down, or somewhere in between, there’s encouragement to be found on every page, derived from decades of studying the world’s best and brightest ideas for deriving joy from life.

“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries.”

In The Art of Happiness: A Handbook for Living by the Dalai Lama XIV, His Holiness answers some of life’s biggest questions. Is romantic love true love? What’s the best way to deal with anger? Against a backdrop of compassion, he delves into achieving well-being through inner development and intention.

“Beauty is eternity gazing at itself in a mirror. But you are eternity and you are the mirror.”

A New Age standard with far-reaching impact, The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran tackles the essentials of thriving as a human being. In 26 short essays covering everything from marriage and friendship to joy and sorrow, Gibran comforts, guides, and inspires his readers. A mainstay of many musicians—Elvis Presley, John Lennon, and David Bowie included—it is one of the bestselling books of the twentieth century.

“The past is history, the future is a mystery, and this moment is a gift.”

A philosophical idealist, author Deepak Chopra focuses on spiritual approaches to daily living in his hugely successful book, The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success: A Practical Guide to the Fulfillment of Your Dreams. In it he outlines principles and practices to help expand the positivity and satisfaction in your life by avoiding fear-based thinking and dogma you may not connect with. Karma, dharma, intention—everything’s here to help get your mind engaged and your heart feeling inspired.

What are your thoughts on spirituality and living the best life possible? Do you have any favorite philosophies, quotes, or tenets that help get you through your day-to-day? We’d love to know what you think—and so would your fellow ThriftBooks readers!

Read more by KA Scott